Cherry MX Black vs. SP-Star Polaris Gray
An in-depth look at the Cherry MX Black and the SP-Star Polaris Gray switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options are the Cherry MX Black and the SP-Star Polaris Gray, both of which are linear switches. The MX Black, known for Cherry's perfected Hyperglide tooling, offers a classic textured smoothness and a deep sound profile while typing. It is categorized as low-pitched, textured, and stiff. On the other hand, the Polaris Gray is favored by those who prefer a bouncy typing experience, featuring a clean and clacky sound profile. Categorized as low-pitched, neutral, mild, thocky, and polished, these switches provide a different tactile feel compared to the MX Black. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the ideal switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
60g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
80g
Bottom-out force
67g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
No
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Gold plated
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Cherry MX Black and the SP-Star Polaris Gray switches have distinct differences in terms of their composition and resulting sound profiles. The MX Black features a nylon top housing, which produces a deeper and fuller sound due to the softer nature of nylon. This material absorbs more sound than harder plastics, creating a duller and rounder sound profile. In contrast, the Polaris Gray utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, which yields a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. Polycarbonate is a stiffer plastic that promotes a more clear and resonant sound. Furthermore, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it particularly suitable for switches with RGB lighting.
Regarding the bottom housings, both the Cherry MX Black and the Polaris Gray employ nylon and polycarbonate respectively. The influence of these materials on the sound profile differs. The softer nature of nylon in the MX Black results in a deeper and fuller sound when pressing down on the switch. On the other hand, the stiffer polycarbonate used in the Polaris Gray creates a sharper and more resonant sound when bottoming out. Additionally, the top housing material has a greater impact on the sound when a key is released, further emphasizing the distinctions between nylon and polycarbonate in the switches.
Although the housing materials differ between the top and bottom of a switch, the resulting sound profiles are influenced by their respective properties. The MX Black's nylon top housing contributes to a deeper and fuller sound when pressing down on keys, while the polycarbonate bottom housing in the Polaris Gray enhances the resonance and clarity of bottoming out. Despite these variations, both switches still offer unique auditory experiences. Whether it is the dull and round sound of the nylon in the MX Black or the clear and sharp sound of the polycarbonate in the Polaris Gray, users can expect distinctive results based on their chosen switch model.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Cherry MX Black linear switch and the SP-Star Polaris Gray linear switch, there are noticeable differences. The MX Black has an actuation force of 60 grams, which is similar to the Polaris Gray's unknown actuation force. Therefore, both switches can provide a similar lightness when it comes to triggering keystrokes. However, when it comes to bottoming out, the MX Black requires a heavier force of 80 grams compared to the Polaris Gray's 67 grams. This makes the MX Black switch feel heavier and more substantial during typing. Weight can be an important factor for individuals who prefer a lighter typing experience for extended periods of use or for gaming, making the Polaris Gray a suitable choice. On the other hand, those seeking a stronger push feel and a more substantial typing experience may find the MX Black's heavier forces more favorable. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on the user's personal preferences and typing needs.
Travel distance
The travel distance of both the Cherry MX Black linear switch and the SP-Star Polaris Gray linear switch is 4 mm. This means that when you press down on a key equipped with either of these switches, you will feel the same distance as the switch travels from the top to the bottom. Therefore, in terms of travel distance, both switches will provide similar results.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The SP-Star Polaris Gray has an MSRP of $5.60 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Polaris Gray for $5.00.
The Cherry MX Black comes in at $4.00 per 10 switches.
Here at Milktooth, we offer the best prices on switches (on average, 27% lower the competition). In addition, we offer free shipping on orders over $49.00. We also offer free returns and exchanges, so you can shop with guaranteed satisfaction.
That said, while price is an important piece of the puzzle, our opinion is that you should ultimately pick the option that most suits your unique preferences since you’ll be using these switches for years to come. In other words, finding something perfect for you is, in our view, the most important criteria.
Typing experience
When it comes to sound, both the Cherry MX Black and the SP-Star Polaris Gray switches have a low-pitched profile, providing a bass-heavy and mellow tone. The MX Black switches, with Cherry's Hyperglide tooling, offer a textured smoothness that contributes to a deep sound profile. On the other hand, the Polaris Gray switches have a clean and clacky sound profile, with the added characteristic of being thocky, producing a deep and satisfying sound when pressed. Keep in mind that the sound of a switch is also influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the MX Black switches are described as textured and stiff. They exhibit noticeable friction when pressed, which may be preferred by some users for its subtle texture. Additionally, these switches require a higher amount of force to actuate and bottom-out, resulting in a more rigid typing experience. Conversely, the Polaris Gray switches are described as mild and polished. They offer a gentle typing experience and have a smooth and refined finish, resulting in reduced friction and smooth key travel. These qualities make the Polaris Gray switches approachable to most users, as they fall in a safe middle-ground zone.
Considering all the available information, both the Cherry MX Black and SP-Star Polaris Gray switches have their own unique characteristics. The MX Black switches are best known for their classic textured smoothness and a deep sound profile, providing a familiar typing experience. On the other hand, the Polaris Gray switches are praised for their bouncy typing experience, clean and clacky sound profile, and the additional thocky characteristic. If you are seeking a low-pitched switch with a mellow tone, both options can deliver similar results. The choice between the two ultimately depends on personal preferences regarding sound, feel, and typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a heavy switch with a textured and stiff feel, the Cherry MX Black is a solid choice. With its 80-gram bottom out force, it offers a satisfying typing experience with a deep sound profile. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-heavy switch with a more gentle and polished feel, the SP-Star Polaris Gray is worth considering. Its 67-gram bottom out force provides a bouncy typing experience, and the switch has a clean and clacky sound profile. Both switches have a low-pitched sound, but the Polaris Gray also has a neutral and thocky characteristics. Ultimately, your preference for switch weight, feel, and sound profile will determine which switch is the better fit for you.
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